A rise in frustration over reproductive rights
The recent re-election of Donald Trump has spurred a wave of frustration among many American women, leading some to embrace a bold movement inspired by South Korean women, known as the “4B movement.” Following the election results, social media has been filled with women declaring that they refuse to date, marry, or have children with men, citing concerns that the new administration may threaten reproductive rights, particularly regarding abortion access.
What is the 4B movement?
Originating in South Korea, the 4B movement (named after four principles, each starting with the Korean “bi” meaning “no”) began as a response to gender-based violence and systemic patriarchy. The four principles guiding the movement are:
- Biyeonae: No dating men
- Bisekseu: No sex with men
- Bihon: No marriage
- Bichulsan: No child-rearing
The movement gained traction in South Korea following the 2016 murder of a young woman in Seoul, which spurred women to reject traditional gender roles. Activists argue that by stepping away from heterosexual relationships, they are making a powerful statement about gender inequality.
Growing interest in the US
For many American women, the 4B movement is seen as a way to regain autonomy amid a political climate they feel is increasingly hostile to women’s rights. Some social media users believe that adopting the movement’s principles could act as a form of protest, calling for a dramatic drop in birth rates to convey discontent.
“Ladies, we need to start considering the 4B movement like the women in South Korea and give America a severely sharp birth rate decline: no marriage, no childbirth, no dating men, no sex with men. We can’t let these men have the last laugh… we need to bite back,” tweeted user @lalisasaura, whose post has since received widespread support with hundreds of thousands of likes and retweets.
Debate over the movement’s impact
Responses to the 4B movement’s adoption in the US are mixed. While many see it as a bold stand for women’s rights, others worry about potential social and cultural implications. One commenter expressed support, noting, “It’s a bold move, but women reclaiming control could send a powerful message.” However, critics argue that such measures may further exacerbate societal divides and caution against adopting extreme stances.
In another viral tweet, user @solitasims urged women to take a stand, saying, “Ladies, I’m being so for real when I say this, it’s time to close off your wombs to males. This election proves now more than ever that they hate us and hate us proudly. Do not reward them.”
The 4B movement’s growing influence suggests a shift in how women view their role in society and relationships. Whether the movement will have lasting effects in the US remains to be seen, but the conversation has brought renewed focus to gender equity, reproductive rights, and personal autonomy.